Liverpool’s own RISE has returned with “Always,” a track that feels like a masterclass in modern AOR. Collaborating with stayMellow (the talented Sam Kinley), the quartet—rounded out by Paul Kinley, Alex Mahoney, and Brian Petch—delivers a sound that is both nostalgic and strikingly current.[1] From the opening notes, the song’s mid-80s DNA is evident, blending vibrant guitar work with immersive synth layers that evoke the arena-rock gold of decades past.
Lyrically, “Always” serves as a heartfelt promise of loyalty and support during life’s heavier moments. The production is crisp and radio-ready, yet it retains a certain grit that keeps the emotional weight intact. In my view, the way the shimmering synth textures lock into that driving rhythm proves that RISE hasn’t just captured a nostalgic sound—they’ve mastered it. This single is a glowing reminder of the band’s ability to craft soaring melodies that stay with you long after the final chord fades.